Cancer support lifeline takes 500 calls in first week
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A CANCER support telephone service set up after drop-in centres were suspended has taken 500 calls in its first week.
CLAN Cancer Support established a one-to-one telephone support line across Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray having temporarily closed its centres due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The staff and volunteers have supported more than 500 people in the first week, including those who have a cancer diagnosis, their spouses, relatives and those recently bereaved.
CLAN has local teams on the end of lines to provide counselling and wellbeing support as well as practical advice, including in Elgin. The number to call in Moray is 01343 544132.
The virus crisis has also forced CLAN to postpone two key fundraisers – the CLAN lunch in Aberdeen and its golf event at Meldrum House – both due to take place in May, and the charity has called out to the north-east community to ask for financial support.
Head of services Iona Mitchell said: "People undergoing treatment for cancer are particularly vulnerable, and whilst self-isolating is a worrying and lonely time for everyone, those with a cancer diagnosis can find it very challenging.
"A phone call or email conversation with the friendly and knowledgeable team at CLAN can make a huge difference and our clients have been extremely grateful for the support we an offer.
"The team at CLAN is also working hard to add information and resources to our website and social media channels to ensure we can reach as many people as possible."
CLAN chief executive Dr Colette Backwell said: "During these very difficult times, we are continuing to provide our support in whatever way we can, including keeping our bed and breakfast facility CLAN Haven open for those travelling to ARI for treatment.
"However, as we face the postponement of our major fundraising events, we need to ask our neighbours and friends to help us.
"For a donation of £10 people can pay for daily transport to hospital for those undergoing treatment. A donation of £20 will cover a telephone cancer support session and £30 will cover the cost of an overnight stay for a cancer patient at CLAN Haven. However, any donation would be very much appreciated to help support families facing cancer at this difficult time."
To donate visit www.clanhouse.org.
